The Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Leila Benali, took part in this leading conclave, inaugurated by Crown Prince Haakon of Norway, said Friday a press release from the Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, specifying that this event brought together more than 60,000 participants from all over the world.
During a panel with the Norwegian Prime Minister, Jonas Gahr Støre, under the theme “Towards a more sustainable and resilient future”, on the occasion of the opening of the conference, Ms. Benali focused on the progress significant achievements made in the clean energy sector in Morocco as well as in the areas of electrification and sustainable development (rural electrification in Morocco: 99.8%), notes the press release.
Recalling Morocco’s strong experience in renewable energies and its strategic positioning as the only African country interconnected with Europe and the Atlantic, the minister also highlighted the Atlantic Initiative of His Majesty King Mohammed VI aimed at to establish synergies between the Kingdom and its partners as a hub connecting “the last reservoir of unused productive capacities” (Africa) to the rest of the world.
Furthermore, Ms. Benali participated in a roundtable around “dependencies in clean technology supply chains”, during which she highlighted the importance of recycling essential minerals to ensure their long-term sustainability while advocating for innovation, certification and incentives to address challenges related to these critical resources.
On the sidelines of the Conference, the Minister held several bilateral meetings, including a working meeting with Norwegian Energy Minister Terje Aasland, during which the two ministers discussed areas of common interest in the energy sector , including market solutions and offshore energy development while emphasizing the importance of cooperation to build capacity in the energy sector.
During this meeting, emphasis was placed on the progress made by Morocco to promote investment in the environment and climate, as well as the modalities for strengthening cooperation between the two countries, particularly through the development of joint projects, including in the circular economy, to materialize the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed at COP28 on Article 6 of the Paris Agreement and support for the projects of the 2030 world cup.
During the conference, Ms. Benali also discussed investment opportunities in Morocco with senior officials from the Norwegian private sector operating in the energy and mining sector.
What are the key benefits of Morocco’s energy interconnectedness with Europe?
Interview: Time.news Editor with Energy Expert Dr. Sofia El-Mansouri
Time.news Editor: Good day, Dr. El-Mansouri! Thank you for joining us. The recent conclave in Norway, attended by Morocco’s Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Leila Benali, gathered significant attention. What were your thoughts on the key discussions, particularly regarding clean energy in Morocco?
Dr. Sofia El-Mansouri: Thank you for having me! The conclave was indeed pivotal, especially with such a high-profile participation. Minister Benali’s focus on Morocco’s accomplishments in the clean energy sector truly resonates. Achieving 99.8% rural electrification is a remarkable feat and demonstrates Morocco’s commitment to sustainable development.
Editor: Absolutely! That statistic is impressive. Morocco has become a shining example in renewable energy. How do you think Morocco’s strategic positioning as the only African country interconnected with Europe plays into its energy transition goals?
Dr. El-Mansouri: It’s a game changer! Being interconnected with Europe offers Morocco unique opportunities not just for energy trading, but also for knowledge exchange and technological collaboration. This can accelerate the adoption of renewable technology and further enhance its energy security.
Editor: During the panel discussion with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, what key messages do you think were exchanged under the theme “Towards a more sustainable and resilient future”?
Dr. El-Mansouri: The theme is very relevant considering the global push for sustainability. I believe the discussions emphasized the need for cooperative frameworks that transcend borders. Both leaders likely explored pathways to mutual energy goals: enhancing resilience against climate change, leveraging renewable energy resources, and investing in sustainable infrastructure.
Editor: It seems like such collaborations are vital. Minister Benali also mentioned the Atlantic Initiative by King Mohammed VI. How significant is this initiative in establishing synergies for renewable energy?
Dr. El-Mansouri: The Atlantic Initiative is crucial. It aims to foster collaboration among African nations and with European partners to develop a coherent approach toward sustainable energy. By focusing on synergies, Morocco can not only improve its own energy frameworks but also help neighboring countries in their renewable energy journey. This could lead to a collective energy market that benefits all involved.
Editor: That’s an inspiring vision. With the rapid advancements in renewable technology, what challenges do you see ahead for Morocco in maintaining this momentum?
Dr. El-Mansouri: Challenges certainly exist, such as ensuring financial investments and managing the transition fairly, especially for communities dependent on traditional energy sources. Moreover, maintaining the technical and operational efficiencies of renewable projects while scaling them up will be crucial. Continuous government commitment and public-private partnerships can mitigate these challenges.
Editor: A comprehensive approach seems necessary. As a final point, what should be the priority for Morocco moving forward in the realm of energy sustainability?
Dr. El-Mansouri: The priority should be multifaceted: enhancing energy efficiency, expanding research and development in innovative technologies, and strengthening international collaborations. Also, ensuring community engagement and education about the benefits of renewable energy can help foster a supportive environment for these initiatives.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. El-Mansouri. Your insights certainly shed light on Morocco’s promising energy landscape and highlight the importance of cooperation in achieving a sustainable future.
Dr. El-Mansouri: My pleasure! Thank you for the engaging discussion.